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‘We are very concerned that this work
represents a throwaway approach to living creatures and encourages a
lack of respect for the environment.’

The artwork, shown at the Tate
Modern gallery in London between April and September, was part of a
retrospective of Hirst’s work, which attracted almost half a million
visitors.

'It is very sad to hear of the death of so
many butterflies. We are very concerned that this work represents a
throwaway approach to living creatures and encourages lack of respect
for the environment'

Dr Martin Warren, chief executive of
Butterfly Conservation

It used tropical butterflies from the Owl and Heliconius species, which can live for up to nine months in their natural habitat.

Those used in the exhibition survived for between a few hours and several days, suggesting their lifespan was shortened.

Bowls of fruit, flowers and sugared water were left in the rooms to allow the butterflies to feed.

A spokesman for Tate Modern said: ‘The
butterflies used in this work were all... selected from varieties known
to thrive in the conditions created.

‘The butterflies lived out the final
stage of their natural life cycle inside this room. Around 400
butterflies were introduced to the exhibition over the course of each
week.’

In a statement, Hirst said: ‘A butterfly expert was employed at considerable cost.

‘Perfect living conditions were
replicated and this resulted in many butterflies enjoying longer
lifespans due to the high quality of the environment and food provided.’